Under the recommendations, marriage would continue as “a union, permanent and life long, of one man with one woman”.

The report also urged the promotion of “maximum freedom” for gay couples within current laws and doctrines, without changing them.

More than 400 Church leaders gathered for a “take note” debate on the issue at Church Hall in Westminster, where they voted to symbolically reject the recommendations.

Church leaders debated the report on same sex marriage at Church House in London

Peter Tatchell, who has campaigned on the issue for 50 years, said: “This vote to, in effect, reject the Bishops’ report is a victory for love and equality. It is the biggest defeat for the Anglican leadership in many decades. Synod refused to endorse the anti-LGBT exclusion and discrimination enshrined in the Bishops’ recommendations.”

The debate, considered the focal point of this week’s Synod, prompted impassioned speeches from members.

Lucy Gorman, a campaigner and representative from York, said: “Trust me, outside of these walls we have been heard as lacking in love.

“Most people have a friend or family member who sits somewhere on the gender sexuality spectrum – and why would they become part of an organisation which is seemingly homophobic, even if we don’t intend it.”

Gay rights protesters demand LGBT equality ahead of the Church of England's General Synod debate on homosexuality and same-sex marriage pic.twitter.com/JyspcNPezW